Virus put paid to grand ceremony – ‘but the day was still very moving’
A GRAND enthronement ceremony planned for York’s new Archbishop had to be hastily rewritten when lockdown measures were introduced.
When the successor to the previous Archbishop, John Sentamu, was announced in December, the team at the minster thought they had months to finalise details of a service befitting the new incumbent.
However, with churches not exempt from coronavirus restrictions, the blueprint had to be ripped up in March and a new ceremony devised for the unprecedented circumstances.
The Dean of York, Dr Jonathan Frost, said: “It is not how any of us imagined we would be welcoming Archbishop Stephen but if these last few months have taught us anything it is how the church can adapt. It has been an absolute
joy working with him on this confirmation ceremony, which was very different, but no less moving than it would have been.
“There was something very poignant about this simple service and the fact it comes at a time when the minster is beginning to reopen its doors again makes it even more special.”
In June, the Chapter of York announced the closure of the historic Minster School, blaming a catastrophic loss of income in the wake of the pandemic.
The cathedral was facing a shortfall of £5.2m but with the doors reopening to visitors from tomorrow it is hoped better times are ahead.
The Dean added: “We have been working hard online to connect with our congregation but the truth is we are meant to be together.
“We held our first public Evensong last Saturday and I think everyone is looking forward to being able to welcome visitors back to this historic church.
“The fact we have also been able to welcome our new Archbishop to this wonderful community has made that landmark moment even more special. There is no other phrase to describe his arrival than a complete joy.”